[goodsamaritan]

Yes you are liable, and yes they could probably get a judgment against you if they were so inclined, but it would be very difficult to collect if you and your assets are in another state. Also, they have a duty to mitigate their damages, so they can't just let the room lie empty for a year and then come after you for the 4200. They have to be actively look for a replacement. Your biggest concern is probably this going on your credit report, but I'm not sure of the likelihood of that actually happening. All in all, if you wanted to be a total dick, you could very likely justskip town without paying or finding a roommate and never have to pay a dime because your roommates will be too lazy to wade through all the red tape to get you to pay.

That said, just make a damn post on craigslist and find a roommate for them.